‘Failure’ Tamim remembers Koko’s legacy

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal delivered an emotional tribute to the late Arafat Rahman Koko on Sunday as nine sportspersons were honoured with the Arafat Rahman Koko Memorial Award 2026 in Dhaka.

The awardees are former Bangladesh skipper Habibul Bashar Sumon, national women's team pacer Marufa Akter, legendary former footballer Alfaz Ahmed, Bangladesh women's football team star Ritu Porna Chakma, Amirul Islam (hockey), Al Amin Jumar (badminton), Sagor Islam (archery), teenage table tennis sensation Khoi Khoi Sai Marma and Chaity Rani (paralympics).

Speaking at The Westin Dhaka’s Grand Ballroom, the former national opener Tamim admitted that he had "failed" to publicly acknowledge Koko’s immense contribution to Bangladesh cricket over the years.

"I promised once that I would speak up about him. Unfortunately, I failed. For that, I apologise. But as long as Bangladesh cricket exists, Arafat Rahman Koko will be remembered," said Tamim.

"His contribution to cricket is immense," the left-handed batter noted. "From Mirpur Stadium to the smallest details needed for players, he thought about everything."

The newly appointed Youth and Sports State Minister Aminul Haque handed over the crests and cheques worth Tk1 lakh to the winners.